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Beaujolais nouveau release

November 21, 2013|Phil Vettel

Part harvest festival, part good excuse to drink wine, the annual release of Beaujolais nouveau takes place the third Thursday in November. Beaujolais nouveau is a light, fruity, food-friendly and fun red wine meant to be enjoyed young, and preferably chilled. Beaujolais nouveau shouldn't be taken too seriously and should never be expensive, and that goes for the celebrations as well.

Oceanique. The restaurant's event will take place Friday evening, beginning with a 6:30 p.m. reception, followed at 7 p.m. by a five-course, three-wine dinner. Price is $95 inclusive. 505 Main St., Evanston, 847-864-3435

Retro Bistro. Will host a Beaujolais nouveau wine festival Thursday-Sunday featuring a three-course prix-fixe menu (five choices in each course) for $47, which includes a glass of Beaujolais nouveau. Live music each night; menu items available a la carte. 1746 W. Golf Road, Mount Prospect, 847-439-2424

Untitled. Will host a combination Beaujolais nouveau and Black Wednesday celebration Nov. 27. It will begin with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and wine tastings and cabaret performances from 7-9:30 p.m., followed by the "Unbridled French Connection" featuring French art performances. Tickets are $15, including complimentary admission to "Unbridled." 111 W. Kinzie St., 312-880-1501